Businesses in the UK with a turnover of over £90,000 are required to register for VAT. Once registered, you receive a VAT registration number that is important when you claim tax on eligible expenses.
Having a VAT number shows that you are VAT-registered and are eligible for tax reliefs. But you must be wondering how to find VAT number? This guide explains where you can find VAT number and how you can verify it instantly.
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What is a VAT Number?
A VAT number is a unique 9-digit code that HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) sends to businesses. This number is for Value Added Tax (VAT) collection and appeared with a “GB” prefix. For example, GB123456789. However, Brexit (a portmanteau of "British" and "exit”) changed a few things for Northern Ireland businesses. Businesses in Northern Ireland may use “XI” instead of GB when trading with EU partners. For example, XI123456789. Additionally, a VAT number is used on invoices and links the business to its VAT records for tax-related matters.Why is It Important to Find VAT Number?
Before diving into how to find VAT number, let’s discuss why it is important for businesses to have one. If you are a business based in the UK, you need to verify a VAT registration number to confirm that a business is legitimately VAT-registered. This ensures you are paying or charging the correct VAT and helps you stay compliant with tax regulations set by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). It also helps you reclaim VAT on expenses and avoid fraud when dealing with non-compliant businesses. Without a valid VAT number from a supplier, HMRC may reject your claim. And if this happens, you may have to deal with a significant amount of admin to rectify the situation.How Do You Find Out Your Own VAT Number?
If you are running your own business and wondering how to find VAT number, here is where you can find it:Invoices and Receipts
You can find the VAT number on the business invoices you have issued. Under UK law, any VAT-registered business must display its VAT number on invoices. Look for the number often prefixed with “GB”, for example, GB123456789.VAT Registration Certificate
When registering for the first time, HMRC send you a Certificate of Registration (VAT4). You can see the VAT number on this certificate, and it is considered one of the reliable sources.Online VAT Account
Another way to verify or find a VAT number is by logging in to your Government Gateway Account. After logging in, you will see a “view VAT certificate” button at the top of the screen. Click that button to get the VAT number.Previous VAT Returns
If you have any previous VAT returns submitted to HMRC, you can check them as they will have your VAT number.Contact HMRC
If you still cannot find the VAT number, contact HMRC directly. They will review your query and help you find your VAT number.How Do I Find a Company's VAT Number?
It is important to know how to find VAT number for other VAT-registered businesses when issuing invoices or when working with a new supplier. This helps you ensure compliance with HMRC. You can obtain it from the following sources:Check the Company’s Invoices
The company’s invoices and receipts are common places to find the VAT number. Since it is a legal requirement to include a VAT number on an invoice, it is usually easy to find.Contact the Business
If you are working with a supplier, you can request their VAT number directly. This is the standard practice when making payments or setting up accounts.Check Company Website
Another easy way to locate a VAT number is to check the business website. Companies often include their VAT number in the footer of their website.How To Find VAT Number on an Invoice?
You can find the VAT number on business documents, and an invoice is one of them. A business is legally required to display its VAT number on sales invoices and receipts. If an invoice does not include a VAT number, it may indicate that the business is not VAT-registered.How to Find VAT Number Using Tools?
You can verify a VAT number using online tools provided by HMRC.VAT Number Checker By HMRC
You can use online services to verify the VAT number. HMRC offers online services to help you verify if a business is legally registered.EU VIES System
If there are cross-border transactions, it is best to use the VAT Information Exchange System (VIES). This system helps you verify VAT number of EU businesses.When Do You Need a VAT Number?
Businesses across the UK need a VAT number when their taxable turnover is more than £90,000. Other key scenarios include:- When you are selling goods or services to other countries
- When you import goods
Common Issues When Searching for a VAT Number?
While learning how to find VAT number, you may face issues like:Missing Information
Missing digits are one of the common causes of failed verification. Entering a wrong digit can lead to invalid results and your invoice may get rejected.Country Specific Formats
VAT numbers are different in other countries. You need to follow country-specific formats and ensure to enter the correct numbers.Let’s Discuss Your Needs
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The Bottom Line
Businesses often wonder “where can we find VAT number” and “how to find VAT number.” The simplest way to find a VAT number is by reviewing your invoices. It is common to find it because UK businesses are legally required to include a VAT number on invoices. Nonetheless, if you cannot find it on the invoice, you can visit the business website. You will see the VAT number in the footer. Also, you can contact the business directly and request the number. Remember, you must keep these records to ensure compliance and maintain your business’s financial health. Check out the following guidelines to understand VAT better:- Can You Pay VAT in Instalments? Everything You Need to know
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